BRPI0814546B1 - METHODS, PROCESSORS, DEVICES AND MEMORY FOR INTERSYSTEM TRANSFER IMPLEMENTING TUNNEL BETWEEN ORIGIN AND DESTINATION ACCESS SYSTEMS - Google Patents

Abstract

methods, devices and computer program products for inter-system transfer by implementing tunneling between source and destination access systems. systems and methods for switching between heterogeneous networks and inter-functioning between a source access system and a destination access system. an inter-system pass-through control component can facilitate the adjustment of an IP tunnel by the mobile unit, in which IP addresses for inter-functioning security gateway and radio access network of the target access system can be identified . the inter-system transfer control component can then implement tunneling between the source system and the destination system, where signaling / packaging associated with the destination system can be transferred through the source system.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The following description generally refers to wireless communications and, more particularly, to methods and apparatus for session handoff procedures in heterogeneous networks.

Description of the Prior Art

[0002] Wireless network systems have become prevalent mechanisms for communicating with other global networks. Wireless communication devices, such as cell phones, personal digital assistants, and the like, have become smaller and more powerful in order to meet consumer needs and improve portability and convenience. Consumers have become dependent on these devices, demanding reliable services, expanded coverage areas, additional services (for example, network browsing capability) and continued reduction in the size and cost of such devices.

[0003] In particular, as the evolution of wireless technologies continues to advance, the progression of mobile services will continue to evolve into more attractive, increasingly rich, mobile and converged services. With end users demanding more superior multimedia content in all environments, the evolution of device technologies will continue to improve the increase in data usage consumption. For example, during the past few years, wireless communications technologies have evolved from analog drive systems to digital systems. Typically, in conventional analog systems, analog signals are retransmitted on a forward link and a reverse link and require a significant amount of bandwidth to allow signals to be transmitted and received while being associated with adequate quality. Since analog signals are continuous in time and space, no status messages (for example, messages that indicate receipt and non-receipt of data) are generated. In contrast, packet-switched systems allow analog signals to be converted into data packets and transmitted over a physical channel between an access terminal and a base station, router, and the like. In addition, digital data can be retransmitted in its natural form (for example, text, Internet data, and the like) using a packet-switched network.

[0004] As such, digital wireless communication systems are widely developed to provide various communication services, such as telephony, video, data, message exchange, broadcasting, and the like. Such systems commonly employ an access network, which connects multiple access terminals, to a wide area network (WAN) when sharing available network resources. The access network is typically implemented with multiple access points spread across a geographic coverage region. Furthermore, the geographic coverage region can be divided into cells with an access point in each cell. Likewise, the cell can also be divided into sectors. However, in such a system architecture, providing an efficient transfer between access systems, which do not share the same communication procedures and policies, becomes a challenging task.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] The following is a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of the aspects described. This summary is not an extensive view and is not intended to identify key or critical elements or delimit the scope of such aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts of the aspects described in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0006] The described aspects allow the transfer of mobile units between heterogeneous networks, and also provide an inter-operation between a source access system and a destination access system together with a session transfer between them - by employing a component of inter-system transfer control. As such, the inter-system pass-through control component can provide tunneling in advance, as part of session negotiation between the TA and the destination access system - in which packets are transported through the source access system (for example, to reduce interruption during transfer and mitigate a requirement to establish session during transfer). Tunnels can be established from a TA to the destination access system, where, from the TA's point of view, the "mobile destination access system" signaling proceeds through such a tunnel. Such tunneling can also be accompanied by the establishment of other tunnels for the destination access system depending on the type of tunneling involved (for example, if the tunneling occurs in the data link layer). The source access system can also designate the destination access system based on the pilot report, where the TA can then communicate with the destination access system and establish a process for negotiation.

[0007] In a related aspect, existing mobility models can be leveraged together with IP tunneling between the mobile unit and the destination access system, to ensure privacy and truthfulness - thereby allowing continuous secure transfer between heterogeneous networks (for example , devices move through networks and administrative domains). Exemplary transfer between such heterogeneous access systems may include a transfer between: Ultra-Mobile Broadband (UMB) and High Rate Packet Data (HRPD); WiMax / HRPD; Long Term Evolution (LTE) / HRPD, in which system architectures can implement Internet Protocol (IP) mobility using a client's mobile IP to actively involve the mobile to prepare for transfer. Alternatively, the system may employ systems that are more controlled by the network than the mobile unit itself. Such inter-operation allows transfer to a mobile unit between different access systems, where a call can continue without falling.

[0008] According to a related methodology, a configuration can be established between the source access system and the destination access system, in preparation for the transfer session. The configuration can include discovery of an IP address for the Interoperating Security Gateway (IWSG) that ensures security of transmitted packets. The configuration can also include discovering an IP address for the Radio Access Network (RAN) or RAN-lite of the target access system. Typically, RAN-lite is a RAN that contains only protocol stacks and not radio transceiver functions. It also supports existing RAN interfaces for core network elements and current RAN. After sessions have been pre-established with RAn-lite, they can be transferred to the current RAN through the existing RAN interface (which is used to support intra-technology inter-RAN transfer). Such transfer allows transfer of technology to the target system to be done without requiring updating to existing existing RANs (to support L3 tunnel from AT), for example.

[0009] According to an additional aspect, a RAN-lite is associated with a protocol (for example, contained within a mobile and / or IWSG), which allows the mobile to discover an IP address and establish a tunnel for pre- configure the session for the target radio system. On the requirement to pass through the air, then the session that is traded on a RAN-lite can be transferred via an existing well-known interface. Consequently, from a radio access network perspective, access after forwarding can be from the same radio technology, and therefore the target access system does not need to be modified to support forwarding of radio technology. heterogeneous system. A RAN-lite can function logically like any other current RAN (for example, a base station controller) - with no current control of any physical base station. Whenever a mobile establishes a tunnel with the RAN-lite, that mobile can negotiate a session with a RAN-lite - so that the mobile can obtain a session of the destination radio technology, and the RAN-lite can store a copy of the session. for the target radio technology, where the mobile can still operate on the source radio technology.

[0010] As such, when making a transfer from a mobile to the destination radio technology over the air, the mobile can then access the current RAN of the destination access system - for example, mobile access and the destination access asks the mobile if a session exists for the technology to be negotiated. The mobile unit can also provide a Unidiffusion Access Terminal Identifier (UATI) or an equivalent identifier, which can be used to locate the session, in which the UATI from a mobile can point to the RAN-lite, where the Current RAN can be used to retrieve the session from RAN-lite to the real RAN. When searching for a session, the mobile can then communicate with the actual RAN on the destination radio system. It should be understood that the actual RAN can represent the base station controller that includes a real connection to the base station.

[0011] The inter-system transfer control component can then implement tunneling between the TA and the destination system, in which signaling / packaging associated with the destination system can be transferred through the source system. In an additional aspect, the L3 tunneling provides the functional and procedural processes for transferring variable length data streams between heterogeneous systems, while maintaining quality of service, and error control functions. Such tunneling can also be transparent to the underlying access system (for example, no change in origin for IP packets) regardless of direction (for example, from LTE to HRPD or from HRPD to LTE).

[0012] In a related aspect, a computer-readable medium is provided, which has codes or instructions executable by computer to: discover IP addresses of security gateways for the destination access system and for the source access system; establish secure tunnels for security gateways and / or any of the heterogeneous access systems.

[0013] According to an additional aspect, a processor is provided, which executes instructions and / or includes modules related to the discovery of addresses for security gateways; establish tunnels between a TA and destination or source access systems.

[0014] For the purposes of the above mentioned and related purposes, certain illustrative aspects are described here in connection with the description below and the attached drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of some of the various ways in which the principles of the revealed subject matter can be employed, and the claimed subject is intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and new features may become apparent from the following detailed description when considered together with the drawings.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0015] Figure 1 - illustrates an exemplary inter-system pass-through control component that provides tunneling of a communication layer, by the mobile unit from a source access system to a destination access system, through the access system source access.

[0016] Figure 2 - illustrates a particular transfer through L3 tunneling for Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB) and High Speed Packet Data (HRPD) systems according to an additional aspect.

[0017] Figure 3 - illustrates an exemplary transfer through L3 tunneling to HRPD - UMB systems.

[0018] Figure 4 - illustrates a related methodology for transferring session state from a source access system to a destination access system according to one aspect.

[0019] Figure 5 - illustrates a provision in the provision of a transfer between a user equipment and a source / destination access system according to a particular aspect.

[0020] Figure 6 - illustrates a call flow according to an exemplary aspect.

[0021] Figure 7 - illustrates a system that can implement a transfer in the L3 layer according to one aspect.

[0022] Figure 8 - illustrates a particular system that facilitates data transmission to an access terminal when a transfer is requested in the L3 layer.

[0023] Figure 9 - illustrates a system that can be implemented as part of transmission data to an access terminal before and after a transfer in the L3 layer.

[0024] Figure 10 - illustrates a system that can be used in connection with receiving an indication of transfer and / or data transmission to an access terminal.

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0025] Several aspects are now described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, several specific details are presented in order to provide a complete understanding of one or more aspects. It may be evident, however, that such aspects can be practiced without these specific details.

[0026] As used in this application, the terms "component", "module", "system" and the like are intended to include a computer-related entity, such as, but not limited to, hardware, firmware, a combination of hardware and software, software or software running. For example, a component can be, but is not limited to, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable, a chain of execution, a program, and / or a computer. For purposes of illustration, both an application running on a computing device and the computing device can be a component. One or more components can reside within a process and / or chain of execution, and a component can be located on a computer and / or distributed between two or more computers. In addition, these components can be executed from various computer-readable media having various data structures stored therein. Components can communicate via remote and / or local processes, such as according to a signal having one or more data packets, such as data from a component that interacts with another component on a local, distributed system, and / or over a network, such as the Internet, with other systems using the signal.

[0027] Furthermore, several aspects are described here in connection with a terminal, which can be a wired terminal or a wireless terminal. A terminal can also be called as a system, device, subscriber unit, subscriber station, mobile station, mobile, mobile device, remote station, remote terminal, access terminal, user terminal, terminal, communication device, agent user, user device, or user equipment (UE). A wireless terminal can be a cell phone, a satellite phone, a conventional cordless phone, a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phone, a wireless local circuit station (WLL), a personal digital assistant (PDA) ), a portable device having wireless capability, a computing device, or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem. In addition, several aspects are described here in connection with a base station. A base station can be used to communicate with wireless terminals and can also be referred to as an access point, a Node B, or some other terminology.

[0028] Furthermore, the term "or" is intended to mean an "or" inclusive instead of an "or" exclusive. That is, unless otherwise specified, or clear in context, the phrase "X employs A or B" is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive exchanges. That is, the phrase "X employs A or B" is satisfied by any of the following cases: X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B. In addition, the articles "one" and "one", as used in this application and in the appended claims, should generally be interpreted to mean "one or more", unless otherwise specified. another way or clear in the context to target a singular form.

[0029] The techniques described here can be used by various wireless communication systems, such as CDMA, TDMA, FDMA, OFDMA, SC — FDMA and other systems. The terms "system" and "network" are often used interchangeably. A CDMA system can implement radio technology, such as Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (UTRA), cdma2000, etc. UTRA includes broadband CDMA (W-CDMA) and other CDMA variants. Additionally, cdma2000 covers IS-2000, IS-95 and IS-856 standards. A TDMA system can implement radio technology, such as the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM). An OFDMA system can implement radio technology, such as UTRA Evoluida (E-UTRA), Ultra-Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), IEEE 802.20, Flash-OFDM, etc. UTRA and E-UTRA are part of the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS). Long Term Evolution (LTE) 3GPP is a UMTS resolution that uses E-UTRA, which uses OFDMA on the downlink and SC-FDMA on the uplink. UTRA, E-UTRA, UMTS, LTE and GSM are described in the documents of an organization called "3rd Generation Partner Project" (3GPP). Additionally, cdma2000 and UMB are described in the documents of an organization called "2 3rd Generation Partnership Project" (3GPP2).

[0030] Various aspects or features will be presented in terms of systems, which may include a number of devices, components, modules, and the like. It must be understood and understood that the various systems may include additional devices, components, modules, etc. and / or not all of the devices, components, modules, etc. discussed in connection with the figures. A combination of these approaches can also be used.

[0031] Figure 1 illustrates a network system 100 that provides for transfer between heterogeneous networks and inter-functioning between a source access system 110 and a destination access system 112. It must be understood that such figure is exemplary in nature and that the inter-system transfer control component can be part of an Access Terminal (AT). The session between the TA and the target system can be pre-established (transparently from the source system) - for example, through L3 tunnel. Such inter-system pass-through control component 115 facilitates adjustment of an L3 tunneling by the mobile unit 104 that operates in dual mode (both in the source access system 110 and in the destination access system 112). The inter-system transfer control component 115 initially allows the mobile unit 104 to acquire a local domain name associated with the source and / or destination access systems 110, 112. Then, the inter-system transfer control component facilitates the discovery of an IP address for a security gateway and a Radio Access Network (RAN) of the destination access system 112. Such a gateway acts as a network point for an entry to the destination access system 112. Consequently , the inter-system pass-through control component 115 allows the mobile unit 104 to establish L3 tunneling, in which signaling and packaging associated with the destination access system 112 can then be transferred through the source access system via of operation continues.

[0032] As such, the inter-system pass-through control component 115 can use tunneling in advantage of a pass-through to exchange handover configuration and execution packages as part of session negotiation between the AT 104 and the transfer system. destination access 112, to reduce interruption during transfer and mitigate a requirement to perform session configuration during transfer. The inter-system pass-through control component 115 also allows communication data packets to be transported through the source access system 110, where such source access system 110 is not typically engaged during negotiations between AT 104 and the destination access system 112.

[0033] Figure 2 and Figure 3 illustrate particular aspects for transfer through L3 tunneling of a UMB 210 system to an HRPD 215 system and vice versa. In Figure 2, the source access system is represented by the UMB 210 system, in which the access terminal or mobile unit 211 is in communication with the evolved Base Station (eBS) 222, in which IP packets are transferred from the eBS for the gateway and the native agent for the Internet. When requesting a transfer from UMB 210 (representing the source access system) to the HRPD 215 access system (representing the destination access system) - a configuration for the HRPD is initiated, during which the unit mobile 211 still remains in the UMB 210 system. The inter-system pass-through control component can then implement tunneling between the UMB 210 and the HRPD 215, where HRPD signaling and associated packaging can be transferred transparently through L3 tunneling, which can be transported by IP via the UMB 210 system.

[0034] Consequently, route line 250 indicates the traffic line, where mobile unit 211 at UMB requires discovery of the Radio Access Network RAN / RAN-lite 212 and associated IP address of HRPD 215, to prepare and configure communication (for example, for packet transfer). Upon discovering the IP address, the signaling for HRPD 215 can then be transferred via such a packet / IP address of RAN-lite, where the packets can pass through the Access Gateway (AGW) 217 in the UMB system and can then be transmitted to RAN-lite 212. The Packet Data Service Node (PDSN) 219 acts as the connection point between the HRPD RAN 212 and IP networks - where the Interoperating Security port (IWSG) 214 can provide security (for example, for IP) through the IPsec 260 tunnel, to ensure packet transmission between the AT 211 and RAN / RAN-lite 212. Such a gateway 214 acts as a network point for a entry to the target access system HRPD 215. In addition, the Session Reference Network Controller (SRNC) 218 typically includes authentication functions and associated settings, which are negotiated between base station 222 and access terminal 211, and functions as a reference for base station 222 to retrieve in formations (for example, obtaining session information to avoid conflicts during session change).

[0035] Similarly, Figure 3 illustrates an additional aspect for a transfer through L3 tunneling of an HRPD 310 system to UMB 315. When a transfer request is made from the HRPD of the origin system 310 to the UMB of the destination 315, RAN UMB / lite-eBS 312 can be discovered and associated UMB gateway (s) 316, 325 identified. For example, initially a UMB RANLite 312 can be discovered, which is associated with the Interoperating Security Gateway (IWSG) 325. Subsequently, upon discovering such an IP address, packets can then be sent to the destination IP address with tunneling based on layer 3 of the communication protocol. Such an early configuration can then facilitate the delivery of packet flow to the UMB 315 target system.

[0036] Figure 4 illustrates an exemplary methodology for a transfer between heterogeneous systems according to one aspect. While the exemplary method is illustrated and described here as a series of blocks representing various events and / or actions, the subject aspect is not limited by the illustrated order of such blocks. For example, some actions or events may occur in different orders and / or simultaneously with other actions or events, different from the order illustrated here, according to the aspects described. In addition, not all illustrated blocks, events or actions, may be required to implement a methodology, according to the subject aspects. In addition, it will be appreciated that the exemplary method and other methods, according to the aspects described, can be implemented in association with the method illustrated and described here, as well as in association with other systems and apparatus not illustrated or described. Initially, and in 410, changes in radio conditions can be detected, which can trigger a request for preparation of transfer from the TA to the destination access system. Alternatively, triggering the transfer preparation may be due to a warning from the target access system, such as the neighboring technology, to the source access system. Subsequently, and in preparation for the transfer session, in 412, a configuration can be established between the TA and the destination access system. Such a configuration may include discovery of an IP address at 416 for the interoperating security gateway that ensures security of transmitted packets. The configuration can also include discovery of IP address for RAN / RAN-lite of the target access system in 418. The inter-system pass-through control component can then implement tunneling between the TA and the target access system in 420, in which signaling / packaging associated with the destination system can be transferred via a source system. Furthermore, in 422, the AT negotiates an air interface session and an IP session with the destination access system. As such, in 424, a request for radio resources from the destination system is received followed by the allocation of radio resources from the destination system to the AT in 426. Consequently, IP traffic can be redirected to the AT in 430 ( or it can also be positioned after action 434) followed by the end of the transfer in 432. Subsequently, in 434, AT acquires a destination system over the air.

[0037] The following is a particular example of Fully Qualified Domain Names for DNS lookups, in which any IP host (such as AT) can perform with the DNS server. Exemplary calls to the target system's RAN / RAN-lite security gateway and discovery may include: From UMB Active Handoff to HRPD <HRPD subnet> .HRPD.IWSG. <local-domain-name> <HRPD subnet> .HRPD .RAN. <local-domain-name> From HRPD Active Handoff to UMB <UMB—ANID> .UMB.IWSG. <local-domain-name> <UMB—ANID> .UMB.RAN. <local-domain> From WiMAX Active Handoff to HRPD <HRPD subnet> .HRPD.IWSG. <Local-domain>> <HRPD subname> .HRPD.RAN. <Local-domain-name> From HRPD Active handoff to WiMAX <WiMAX — APID > .WiMAX.IWSG. <local-domain-name> <WiMAX—APID> .WiMAX.RAN. <local-domainname> Active LTE Handoff for HRPD <HRPD subnetwork> .HRPD.IWSG. <Domain-name -local> <HRPD subnet> .HRPD.RAN. <local-domain-name> From HRPD Active Handoff to LTE <LTE-eNBID> .LTE.IWSG. <Local-domain-name> <LTE-eNBID> .LTE .RAN. <local-domain-name>

[0038] Subnet HRPD, ANID UMB, APID WiMax, and LTE-eNBID can be obtained directly over the air through the target access system or through a neighboring technology record advised by the source access system.

[0039] Figure 5 is an exemplary block diagram for an interaction between User Equipment or access terminal 510, the source access system 540 and the destination access system 560. UE 510 includes the system protocol of destination 511 and source system protocol 512 to allow dual mode operation with both systems. Such an arrangement allows discovery for IWSG's IP address and establishes IPsec tunnel. In addition, the IP address of a destination RAN can be discovered to allow pre-configuration of the destination RAN session. The provision 500 facilitates the transfer of session from the source access system 540 to the destination access system 560, using transfer preparation and transfer execution before transfer, when implementing the IPsec tunnel.

[0040] Figure 6 illustrates an exemplary call flow 600 to establish an IP security tunnel according to another aspect. The AT 602 is initially associated with the source access system 604, and obtains domain name for the destination access system via a 610 call. Consequently, the AT 602 can issue a Domain Name System (DNS) query. 606 to obtain an IP address for interoperating security gateway (IWSG) 608 to access the target access system. In addition, such a DNS query can also include discovery of IP address for RAN / RAN-lite of the target access system. The AT 602 can then start tunneling to the destination access system, in which signaling / packaging associated with the destination system can be transferred through the source system 604. As explained earlier, exemplary transfer between such heterogeneous access systems can include transfer between UMB / HRPD; WiMax / HRPD; LTE / HRPD, in which system architectures can implement IP mobility using a customer's mobile IP to actively engage the mobile or access terminal 602 for transfer preparation; or alternatively employ systems that are more network controlled than the mobile unit itself. Such inter-operation can allow a session transfer to a mobile unit between different access systems, where a call can continue without falling.

[0041] Figure 7 illustrates exemplary wireless communications systems 711, 721 that can provide service to a wireless terminal 726. Systems 711, 721, represent a destination access system and a source access system, respectively, which include a plurality of sectors 702, 704, 708, and 706, 710, 712. The destination access system 711 and the source access system 721 can employ different wireless services within such sectors. While such sectors are shown to be hexagonal in nature and of substantially similar size, it should be understood that the size and shape of these sectors may vary depending on the geographic region, number, size, and shape of physical impediments, such as buildings, and many others factors. Access points (base stations, access routers, etc.) 714, 716, 720 are associated with sectors 702, 704, 708, in which "A" technology is employed as part of these. Similarly, access points 718, 722, 724 are associated with sectors 706, 712, 710, where technology "B" is employed as part of these, where technology "B" is different from technology "A".

[0042] As the wireless terminal 726 is geographically ported, it can receive signals with greater intensity from the target access system 711 when compared to signals received from the source access system 721. It should be appreciated that the wireless terminal 726 can operate in dual mode with both the source access system 721 and the destination access system 711 - where the inter-system transfer control component 719 can provide tunneling in advance of the transfer as part of the session negotiation between the AT 726 and the destination access system 711. Consequently, data packets can be transported (transparently or non-transparently) through the source access system 721 while the TA is prepared for forwarding to the destination system, and then the data packets can be redirected to the destination system once the transfer is complete.

[0043] Figure 8 illustrates a particular system 800 that facilitates data transmission between heterogeneous access systems when a transfer is requested through an L3 tunneling established by the mobile unit. The 800 system can be associated with an access point and includes an 802 array of components that can communicate with each other in connection with data transmission to an access terminal during a transfer between heterogeneous access systems.0 802 array includes components 804 to determine that an access terminal requests a transfer from a first access system to a second access system. For example, such a determination can occur when analyzing an identity of a target access system through the access terminal. Such an identity may include any suitable indication employed to identify the IP addresses of target system modules among one or more other access system modules. It should be appreciated that several processes to indicate an identity of the destination access can be contemplated by the aspects described and are intended to be covered by them.

[0044] Grouping 802 also includes a component 806 for receiving data from the first access as well as receiving an indication of what the next data to be transmitted to the access terminal from the first access system. For example, a time stamp (timestamp) or other numeric string in an RLP packet header can indicate what data is to be transmitted next to the access terminal. The 802 array additionally includes a component 808 for receiving data from a network module, where the data is desirably transmitted to the access terminal. Furthermore, the data received from the network module can be an IP encapsulated data packet that is associated with a sequence number or tag, thereby allowing the second transceiver function to determine what next data is to be transmitted to the access terminal. Grouping 802 may also include a component 810 for transmitting data to the access terminal in an appropriate sequence, where data is received from the first access system and the network module. For example, the second access system can receive data to be transmitted to the access terminal, where the data is not in duplicate and must be transmitted in a particular sequence. System 800 can also include memory 812, which can hold instructions related to execution components 804-810. The 800 system allows new access systems or target access systems to start receiving data in preparation for transfer even though the source has not yet abandoned and the data is aligned on the target access system. Such a destination access system has information required to restore network layer protocol information and transmitted data, in order not to interrupt current data transfer - the transfer can occur at substantially high speed and in a low time limit. The 800 system can be incorporated as part of a distributed and / or centralized architecture.

[0045] Figure 9 illustrates a system 900 that can be used in connection with data transmission to an access terminal before and after a transfer in the L3 layer. The system 900 comprises a receiver 902, which receives a signal from, for example, one or more receiving antennas, and performs typical actions on it (for example, filters, amplifies, converts downwards, ...) the received signal and digitizes the conditioned signal to obtain samples. A demodulator 904 can demodulate and provide received pilot symbols for a 906 processor for channel estimation.

[0046] Processor 906 may be a dedicated processor for analyzing information received by receiver component 902 and / or generating information for transmission by a 914 transmitter. Processor 906 may be a processor that controls one or more parts of the 900 system, and / or a processor that analyzes information received by the 902 receiver, generates information for transmission by a 914 transmitter, and controls one or more parts of the 900 system. The 900 system can include a 908 optimization component, which can optimize user equipment performance before , during, and / or after transfer. The optimization component 908 may be incorporated into the processor 906. It should be appreciated that the optimization component 908 may include optimization code that performs utility-based analysis in connection with determining whether or not to pass on the source access system to the target access system. The optimization code can use methods based on artificial intelligence in connection with the performance of interference and / or determinations of probabilistic and / or determination based on statistics in connection with the performance of transfers.

[0047] System (user equipment) 900 may additionally comprise memory 910, which is operatively coupled to processor 906 and which stores information, such as signal strength information with respect to a base station, programming information, and the like, in that such information may be used in connection with determining whether and when to request a transfer. Memory 910 can additionally store protocols associated with generating query tables, etc., such that the system 900 can employ stored protocols and / or algorithms to increase system capacity. It will be appreciated that the data storage components (for example, memories) described here can be volatile or non-volatile memory, or can include both volatile and non-volatile memory. For purposes of illustration, and not limitation, non-volatile memory may include read memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM), which acts as an external cache memory. For purposes of illustration, not limitation, RAM is available in many ways such as Synchronous RAM (SRAM), Dynamic RAM (DRAM), Synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), Dual Data Speed SDRAM (SDRAM DDR), Enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM ), Synchronous link DRAM (SLDRAM), and direct RAM Rambus (DRRAM). Memory 910 is intended to comprise, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory. Processor 906 is connected to a symbol modulator 912 and a transmitter 914 that transmits the modulated signal.

[0048] Figure 10 illustrates a system that can be used in connection with receiving an indication of transfer and / or data transmission to an access terminal. System 1000 comprises a base station 1002 with a receiver 1010 that receives signals from one or more user devices 1004, via one or more receiving antennas 1006, and transmits to one or more user devices 1004 through a plurality of transmit antennas 1008. In one example, receive antennas 1006 and transmit antennas 1008 can be implemented using a single antenna array. The receiver 1010 can receive information from receiving antennas 1006 and is operatively associated with a demodulator 1012 that demodulates received information. The 1010 receiver can be, for example, a Rake receiver (for example, a technique that individually processes multipath signal components using a plurality of baseband correlators, ...), an MMSE-based receiver, or some other receiver suitable for separating user devices assigned to it, as will be appreciated by one skilled in the art. For example, multiple receivers can be employed (for example, one per receiving antenna), and such receivers can communicate with each other to provide improved estimates for user data. Demodulated symbols are analyzed by a processor 1014, which is similar to the processor described above, with respect to Figure 9, and is coupled to a memory 1016 that stores information related to user device assignments, related query tables and the like. Receiver output for each antenna can be processed together by receiver 1010 and / or processor 1014. A modulator 1018 can multiplex the signal for transmission by a transmitter 1020 through transmitting antennas 1008 to user devices 1004.

[0049] As used here, the terms "component", "system" and the like are intended to refer to an entity related to computer, hardware, a combination of hardware and software, running software or software and / or electromechanical units. For example, a component can be, but is not limited to, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, a case, an executable, a chain of execution, a program and / or a computer. For illustration purposes, applications running on a computer and the computer can be a component. One or more components can reside within a process and / or chain of execution and a component can be located on a computer and / or distributed between two or more computers.

[0050] The word "exemplary" is used here to mean serving as an example, case or illustration. Any aspect or project described here as "exemplary" should not necessarily be interpreted as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or projects. Similarly, examples are provided here for the purpose of clarity and understanding only and should not be construed as limiting the described aspects or parts of them in any way. It should be appreciated that a myriad of additional or alternative examples could have been presented, but have been omitted for the sake of brevity.

[0051] Furthermore, all or parts of the described aspects can be implemented as a system, method, apparatus, or article of manufacture using standard programming techniques and / or engineering to produce software, firmware, hardware or any combination of these to control a computer to implement the revealed aspects. For example, a computer-readable medium may include, but is not limited to, magnetic storage devices (eg hard disk, floppy disk, magnetic strips ...), optical discs (compact disc (CD), digital versatile disc (DVD ) ...), smart cards, and flash memory devices (for example, card, stick, key drive ...). Additionally, it should be appreciated that a carrier wave can be used to carry computer-readable electronic data, such as those used in the transmission and reception of electronic mail or in accessing a network, such as the Internet, or a local area network (LAN) ). Of course, those skilled in the art will recognize that many changes to this configuration can be made without departing from the scope or inventive concept of the claimed subject matter.

[0052] When the systems and / or methods described here are implemented in software, firmware, middleware or microcode, program code or code segments, they can be stored in a machine-readable medium, such as a storage component. A code segment can represent a procedure, a function, a subprogram, a program, a routine, a subroutine, a module, a software package, a class, or any combination of instructions, data structures, or instructions for program. A code segment can be coupled to another code segment or to a hardware circuit when passing and / or receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents. Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc. can be passed, forwarded, or transmitted using any suitable means including memory sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission, etc.

[0053] For a software implementation, the techniques described here can be implemented with modules (for example, procedures, functions, and so on) that perform the functions described here. The software codes can be stored in memory units and executed by processors. A memory unit can be implemented inside the processor or external to the processor, in which case it can be communicatively coupled to the processor through various means.

[0054] What has been described above includes examples of the subject matter disclosed. Of course, it is not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for the purpose of describing such subject matter, but someone skilled in the art may recognize that many additional combinations and permutations are possible. Consequently, the subject matter is intended to cover all such changes, modifications, and variations that are within the inventive concept and scope of the attached claims. Furthermore the term "includes" is used in the detailed description or in the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a similar way to the term "comprising", since "comprising" is interpreted when used as a transitional word in a claim .

Claims (15)

1. Method for transferring a session between a source access system (210) and a destination access system (215), the method CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises: discovering an address of the destination access system (215) by an access terminal, AT, (211) in communication with the original access system (210); use the address to tunnel a secure channel (260) from the AT (211) to a security gateway of the destination access system (215) through the source access system (210), the tunnel configured to negotiate a session of air interface between the AT (211) and the destination access system (215); and transfer signaling associated with the destination access system (215) from the AT (211) to the destination access system (215) through the secure channel (260). 2. Method according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that tunneling also comprises tunneling a secure channel (260) to a security gateway of the destination access system (215). 3. Method, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it also comprises monitoring a pilot of the target access system (215) while operating on the source radio access system. 4. Method, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it also comprises: establishing a tunnel from the TA (211) to the source access system (210), in which the source access system (210 ) or the destination access system (215) is operable based on at least one of a 3GPP specification, a 3GPP2 specification, or an IEEE specification. 5. Method, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it also comprises: negotiating a session between the TA (211) and the destination access system (215) using the secure channel to facilitate the transfer of a communication session from the AT (211) from the source access system (210) to the destination access system (215). 6. Method, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it also comprises: pre-establishing a session with a module in the destination access system (215) having a protocol to negotiate a session for the destination access system (215). 7. Processor configured to perform session forwarding, the processor CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises: a first module to discover an address of a destination access system (215) by an access terminal, AT, (211) to tunnel between the access terminal, AT, (211) and a destination access system (215); and a second module to establish a secure tunnel from the access terminal, AT, (211) to a security gateway of the destination access system (215) using the address, the secure tunnel extending through the source access system (210) and configured to negotiate an air interface session between the AT (211) and the destination access system (215). 8. Session forwarding method between a source access system (210) and a destination access system (215), the CHARACTERIZED method for understanding: discovering an address of the destination access system (215) by a terminal access, AT, (211), to tunnel from an access terminal, AT, (211); tunnel a secure channel (260) from the access terminal (211) to a security gateway of the target access system (215) through the source access system (210) using the address, the tunnel configured to negotiate a session air interface between the AT (211) and the destination access system (215); and receiving signaling from the destination access system (215) through the secure channel (260). 9. Method, according to claim 8, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it also comprises: monitoring a target access system pilot while operating on the source radio access system. 10. Method, according to claim 8, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it also comprises: establishing a tunnel from the TA (211) to the destination access system (215), in which the source access system (210 ) or the destination access system (215) is operable based on at least one of a 3GPP specification, a 3GPP2 specification, or an IEEE specification. 11. Processor configured to perform session forwarding, the processor FEATURED by the fact that it comprises: a first module to discover, through an access terminal, AT, (211), an address of a security gateway of a destination access system (215); and a second module for establishing a tunnel from an access terminal, AT, (211) to the destination access system (215) using the address of the security gateway, the tunnel comprising a secure channel extending through a source access system and configured to negotiate an air interface session between the AT (211) and the destination access system (215). 12. Memory CHARACTERIZED by understanding instructions that, when executed, cause at least one computer to perform a method as defined in any one of claims 1 to 3 or 5 to 10. 13. Apparatus CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises: discovery mechanisms to discover an address of a destination access system (215) by an access terminal, AT, (211) to tunnel from an access terminal, AT, (211); mechanisms tunnel a secure channel (260) from the access terminal, AT, (211), to a security gateway of the target access system (215) through a source access system (210) using the system address destination access (215), the secure channel (260) configured to negotiate an air interface session between the AT (211) and the destination access system (215); and transmission mechanisms for transmitting signals over the secure channel (260). 14. Apparatus, according to claim 13, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it also comprises: mechanisms to negotiate a session between the AT (211) and the destination access system (215) through the tunnel to facilitate transfer of a session from AT communication (211) from the source access system (210) to the destination access system (215). 15. Apparatus, according to claim 13, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it also comprises: mechanisms to pre-establish a session with a module in the destination access system (215) that contains a protocol to negotiate a session for the access system destination (215).

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